FACTS

Stephen Boyce
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Oct 26, 2025 • 58min

The Seven Ecumenical Councils, Part 3: Ephesus (431)

Join Dr. Stephen Boyce and Pat May on the FACTS Podcast as they unpack one of the most defining moments in Christian history—the Council of Ephesus (431 AD). This historic gathering of bishops from across the early Church settled the question: Who is Jesus Christ, and why is Mary called the “Mother of God”?Discover the theological debates, political drama, and spiritual insights behind the Third Ecumenical Council, where the Church declared that the one born of Mary is truly God made flesh.#ChristianHistory #CouncilofEphesus #Theotokos #CyrilofAlexandria #Nestorius #EarlyChurch #TheFACTSPodcast #StephenBoyce
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Oct 19, 2025 • 45min

What Is the Anglican Ordinariate—and Should Anglicans Join It?

What exactly is the Anglican Ordinariate — and should Anglicans join it?In this episode of The FACTS Podcast, Stephen Boyce explores one of the most fascinating developments in modern Christianity: Pope Benedict XVI’s creation of the Ordinariate, a home for Anglicans entering full communion with the Catholic Church while preserving the beauty of their own liturgical and spiritual heritage.We’ll unpack what the Ordinariate is, why it was founded, how it functions today, and the real questions Anglicans face when discerning whether to remain in the Communion or cross the Tiber.Whether you’re an Anglican curious about Catholic unity, a Catholic intrigued by Anglican tradition, or simply someone passionate about church history and Christian unity—this episode is for you.👉 Subscribe, share, and join the conversation as we ask:What does unity look like without losing identity?If you'd like to donate to our ministry or be a monthly partner that receives newsletters and one on one discussions with Dr. Boyce, here's a link: https://give.tithe.ly/?formId=6381a2ee-b82f-42a7-809e-6b733cec05a7 #AnglicanOrdinariate #PopeBenedictXVI #AnglicanorumCoetibus #AngloCatholic #AnglicanPatrimony #OrdinariateOfTheChairOfStPeter #OurLadyOfWalsingham #OurLadyOfTheSouthernCross #AnglicanismAndCatholicism #JoiningTheCatholicChurch #AnglicanLiturgy #AnglicanCatholicUnity #AnglicanTradition #Ecumenism #ChristianUnity #FACTSPodcast #StephenBoyce
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Oct 13, 2025 • 44min

The Cadaver Synod: When a Dead Pope Stood Trial

In this episode of The FACTS Podcast, we explore one of the most shocking and macabre events in Church history—the Cadaver Synod. In 897 AD, Pope Stephen VI ordered the corpse of his predecessor, Pope Formosus, to be exhumed, dressed in papal vestments, and placed on trial for crimes against the Church.Why did this happen? What political and theological tensions led to such a grotesque spectacle? And what does the Cadaver Synod reveal about the state of the papacy in the late 9th century?Join Dr. Stephen Boyce as he unpacks the story behind the trial of a dead pope, the chaos of the post-Carolingian Church, and the aftermath that reshaped medieval Rome.If you'd like to donate to our ministry or be a monthly partner that receives newsletters and one on one discussions with Dr. Stephen Boyce, here's a link: https://give.tithe.ly/?formId=6381a2ee-b82f-42a7-809e-6b733cec05a7 #CadaverSynod #ChurchHistory #PapalHistory #TheFACTSPodcast #PopeFormosus #MedievalChurch #DarkAges #ChristianHistory #StephenBoyce #CatholicHistory
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Oct 5, 2025 • 58min

The Seven Ecumenical Councils, Part 2: Constantinople (381)

In this episode of FACTS, Stephen Boyce and Pat May unpack the Second Ecumenical Council—Constantinople 381, the gathering that completed the Nicene Creed and reshaped the map of early Christianity. Convened by Emperor Theodosius I, this council not only reaffirmed the divinity of Christ but boldly confessed the Holy Spirit as Lord and Giver of Life, closing the door on Arianism and Macedonian heresies once and for all.Join us as we trace the intense theological debates, the tragic death of Meletius of Antioch, Gregory of Nazianzus’ resignation, and the dramatic rise of Constantinople as “New Rome.” We’ll explore how these events deepened East–West tensions, redefined Church hierarchy, and left an enduring mark on both Orthodox and Catholic tradition.If you’ve ever wondered how the Creed we recite today took its final shape—or why Constantinople became the new center of gravity for the Eastern Church—this episode is a must-listen.Topics include:The fall of Arian influence and the enforcement of Nicene orthodoxyMeletius of Antioch’s death and the Antiochene schismGregory of Nazianzus’ presidency and resignationThe rise of Nectarius and the making of “New Rome”Why Rome rejected Canon 3—and how Chalcedon later affirmed the councilIf you'd like to donate to our ministry or be a monthly partner that receives newsletters and one on one discussions with Dr. Stephen Boyce, here's a link: https://give.tithe.ly/?formId=6381a2ee-b82f-42a7-809e-6b733cec05a7 #ChurchHistory #EcumenicalCouncils #NiceneCreed #TheologyPodcast
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Sep 27, 2025 • 59min

The Seven Ecumenical Councils, Part I: Nicaea (325)

In this first episode of our new series, The Seven Ecumenical Councils, Stephen Boyce and Pat May explore the Council of Nicaea (325), the landmark gathering that shaped the foundation of Christian orthodoxy. We’ll discuss the historical context, the Arian controversy, the role of Constantine, and how the Nicene Creed became a defining statement of faith for the Church. Join us as we trace the debates, decisions, and lasting legacy of the first ecumenical council.If you'd like to donate to our ministry or be a monthly partner that receives newsletters and one on one discussions with Dr. Boyce, here's a link: https://give.tithe.ly/?formId=6381a2ee-b82f-42a7-809e-6b733cec05a7 #CouncilOfNicaea #EcumenicalCouncils #ChurchHistory #ChristianTheology
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Sep 22, 2025 • 49min

Questions to Ask Before You Switch Church Denominations

Are you thinking about leaving your current denomination to become Catholic, Orthodox, or Anglican? Before you make that move, there are serious questions you need to wrestle with. In this episode of FACTS, Stephen Boyce walks through five essential questions every believer should ask before switching church traditions. From understanding doctrine beyond surface-level aesthetics, to wrestling with the sacraments, spiritual authority, family impact, and the dangers of rushing, this conversation will help you slow down, think deeply, and discern wisely.Whether you’re curious, struggling, or seriously considering a change, this episode will ground you in both Scripture and church history, reminding us that the faith we confess must be more than a reaction—it must be a conviction.If you'd like to donate to our ministry or be a monthly partner that receives newsletters and one on one discussions with Dr. Boyce, here's a link: https://give.tithe.ly/?formId=6381a2ee-b82f-42a7-809e-6b733cec05a7 👉 Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more conversations on Scripture, Church history, and the faith once delivered to the saints.#ChurchHistory #CatholicConvert #OrthodoxConvert #AnglicanConvert #ChristianPodcast #ProtestantToCatholic #ProtestantToOrthodox #ProtestantToAnglican #FaithJourney #DenominationSwitch #ApostolicFaith #FACTSPodcast #StephenBoyce
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Sep 14, 2025 • 1h 4min

We Are At War: St. Michael, Defend Us In Battle!

Dr. Stephen Boyce and Pat May dive into the reality of spiritual warfare and the angelic battles surrounding us, especially within the sacred mystery of the Mass. Drawing on Scripture, Church tradition, and the intercession of St. Michael the Archangel, we explore how the liturgy is not only worship but also a place where heavenly and spiritual realities converge.This episode unpacks the unseen conflict between the powers of darkness and the hosts of heaven, reminding us that Christians are called to stand firm in prayer, faith, and vigilance. Join us as we reflect on the role of St. Michael, the spiritual meaning of the Mass, and the hope we have in Christ’s victory.If you'd like to donate to our ministry or be a monthly partner that receives newsletters and one on one discussions with Dr. Boyce, here's a link: https://give.tithe.ly/?formId=6381a2ee-b82f-42a7-809e-6b733cec05a7 👉 Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more conversations on Scripture, Church history, and the faith once delivered to the saints.#StMichael #SpiritualWarfare #ChristianPodcast #WeAreAtWar #Mass #Liturgy #AngelicHosts #MichaelTheArchangel #ChristianFaith #Catholic #Orthodox #Anglican #Prayer #FaithAndTradition #TheFACTSPodcast #StephenBoyce #PatMay
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Sep 8, 2025 • 1h 3min

The Vatican Embraces LGBTQ+ Pilgrims in St. Peter’s Basilica

Join Dr. Stephen Boyce and Fr. James Gadomski (host of Barely Protestant) for a joint livestream as we discuss the shocking news: The Vatican embraces LGBTQ+ pilgrims inside St. Peter’s Basilica. Together we’ll examine what this move means for Catholicism, ecumenical dialogue, and the broader Christian world. Is this a genuine act of hospitality, or a troubling signal of confusion within Rome? Don’t miss this important conversation that cuts to the heart of faith, tradition, and the future of the Church.If you'd like to donate to our ministry or be a monthly partner that receives newsletters and one on one discussions with Dr. Boyce, here's a link: https://give.tithe.ly/?formId=6381a2ee-b82f-42a7-809e-6b733cec05a7 #Vatican #LGBTQ #CatholicChurch #StPetersBasilica #Rome #Christianity #Ecumenism #DrStephenBoyce #FrJamesGadomski #BarelyProtestant #FACTSPodcast #StephenBoyce
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Sep 1, 2025 • 35min

Where Should I Begin My Study of Church History?

Where should someone start studying church history? Many people jump straight to Augustine, the Creeds, or the Councils — but the real starting point is with Eusebius of Caesarea, the first great historian of the Church.In this episode of The FACTS Podcast with Dr. Stephen Boyce, we explore: • Who Eusebius was and why he matters. • How his Ecclesiastical History preserves documents we would otherwise have lost. • Why he gives the best “map” of Christianity from the apostles to Constantine. • How to read him critically, seeing both his strengths and biases. • A recommended pathway for continuing after Eusebius with the Apostolic Fathers, Apologists, and Nicene defenders.If you’ve ever asked, “Where should I begin my study of church history?” — this is the episode for you.👉 Subscribe for more episodes on the early Church, theology, and history.👉 Comment below: Where did you start your journey into church history?#ChurchHistory #Eusebius #EarlyChurch #ChristianHistory #ChurchFathers #TheologyPodcast #EcclesiasticalHistory #ApostolicFathers #Constantine #Christianity #TheFACTSPodcast #StephenBoyce #DrStephenBoyce
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Aug 24, 2025 • 1h 6min

The Third Temple & Bible Prophecy

Will there really be a Third Temple in Jerusalem? Or has the Temple already been fulfilled in Christ?In this episode, Stephen Boyce and Pat May examine one of the most debated questions in Bible prophecy. We’ll explore why a physical third temple is unnecessary and how Jesus Himself is the final Temple, as revealed in John’s Gospel (John 2:19-21) and Revelation (21-22).We’ll also expose how Dispensationalist interpretations of Ezekiel’s Temple and Revelation often miss the point of the New Covenant. Ezekiel’s visionary temple and John’s apocalyptic imagery are not blueprints for future construction—they’re prophetic symbols fulfilled in Christ and His Church.What we’ll cover:Why Christ is the ultimate Temple of God (John 1:14, John 2:19-21)Problems with rebuilding a Temple under the Law of Moses todayHow Ezekiel’s Temple points to a spiritual reality, not a future buildingMisinterpretations of Revelation by DispensationalistsThe Church as God’s Temple (1 Corinthians 3, Ephesians 2)Why focusing on Christ as the Temple transforms worship and prophecyJoin us as we bring clarity to one of the most misunderstood eschatological topics.#BibleProphecy #ThirdTemple #Eschatology #Dispensationalism #BookOfRevelation #EzekielTemple #ChristTheTemple #NewCovenant #EndTimesDebate #FACTSPodcast #StephenBoyce

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